CORPORATE ORGANISATIONS INTERACTIVE NETWORK SYSTEMS

Project details

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CSC - Cost-sharing contracts

Objective

COINS is developing a telematics network to bring fast efficient communications to European SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises). The network will use teleservices to enable SMEs and chambers of commerce to exploit multimedia training for distance learning. Video-conferencing will enable SME staff to attend courses from their own company rather than having to travel to centralised locations. The SME staff will be able to have face-to-face training with trainers located at a distance and to take part in group training sessions. This project will boost SME training in remote regions and also make these regions more attractive to industry.

The Corporate Organisations Interactive Network Systems (COINS) Project aims to develop a telecommunications network which will allow SMEs (Small and Medium sized Enterprises) across Europe to communicate in a fast and efficient manner.

The COINS project will provide networked access to training centres and will promote the use of teleservices in communities to enable both representative community users (such as Chambers of Commerce) and SMEs to avail of multi-media training and information systems.

The system will test on-the-job training programmes using training materials which will be accessed over the telematics network. The project will use video-conferencing facilities to provide face-to-face training on a multi-point basis. This will enable SME learners at their own business premises to take part in group training sessions without having to travel to centralised training centres

The elimination of this necessity to travel will be one of the main benefits of the COINS project. This will be of particular benefit to SMEs located in more remote regions of Europe, as they can be integrated into mainstream activities through the use of the telematics network. As a result, the attractiveness of these more remote areas as a location for industry will be improved. The availability of electronically-networked training and information services will also result in an enhanced quality of life for these regions. Remote communities will be able to avail of training and information services and will also be able to communicate with similar groups across Europe to address common issues.

The COINS project group involves participants from six countries - Ireland, Germany, The Netherlands, Spain, Austria and Wales. Training materials on Management and Marketing for the implementation of the project will be adapted in three languages - English, German and Spanish. A total of 190 SMEs will be involved in the initial developmental activities. The project will provide these SMEs with the opportunity to be involved in distance learning programmes and teleworking training programmes. They will learn to use teleconferencing as a basic business communication tool.